| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Province: Quebec, Canada
Main Campus: Rouyn-Noranda
Also has satellite campuses in:
Val-d'Or
Amos
Ville-Marie
La Sarre
First Nations communities (e.g., Pikogan, Kitcisakik)
Located in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region, a naturally beautiful area filled with forests, lakes, and a peaceful living environment.
French name: Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue
Established: 1983
Part of the Université du Québec network
Offers a personalized, community-based educational experience
Known for small class sizes, a strong focus on applied research, and collaboration with Indigenous communities
UQAT offers a range of undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs, particularly in:
Engineering (mining, mechanical, electrical, forestry)
Environmental Sciences & Sustainable Development
Education
Health Sciences (Nursing, Psychoeducation)
Psychology & Social Work
Indigenous Studies & Community Development
Management and Administration
Art Therapy & Creative Arts
Most programs are taught in French, but UQAT is known for being inclusive, and some graduate research opportunities may be supervised in English.
UQAT is very welcoming to international students, especially those seeking a quiet, focused environment and more personalized support.
The university has dedicated staff to help international students with:
Housing
Immigration procedures
Cultural integration
Language support
Tuition fees for international students:
Undergraduate: approx. $12,000 – $15,000 USD/year
Graduate: approx. $13,000 – $16,000 USD/year
Cost of living is much lower than in cities like Montreal or Toronto, making UQAT one of the most affordable options in Canada.
Affordable, peaceful, and safe study environment
Strong programs in mining, forestry, engineering, and Indigenous studies
Unique partnerships with First Nations communities
Opportunities for fieldwork, hands-on learning, and community-based research
Great for students who want a balanced academic life with access to nature and outdoor activities
UQAT offers a wide range of career-focused and research-driven programs, especially in fields relevant to the natural resources, Indigenous communities, health sciences, and education sectors.
Most undergraduate programs are taught in French. Popular bachelor’s programs include:
Bachelor of Engineering – Mining
Bachelor of Engineering – Mechanical
Bachelor of Engineering – Electrical
Bachelor of Forestry Science
Bachelor in Computer Science
Bachelor of Nursing
Bachelor of Psychology
Bachelor of Psychoeducation
Bachelor of Social Work
Bachelor in Preschool and Primary Education
Bachelor in Secondary Education (various subjects)
Bachelor in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
Bachelor of Multidisciplinary Arts
Bachelor in Art Therapy (unique in Quebec)
Bachelor in Indigenous Studies
UQAT offers both course-based and research-based master's programs, some of which can be completed partially or fully in English (especially research projects).
Master in Engineering (Mining, Mechanical, Electrical)
Master in Environmental Studies / Sustainable Development
Master in Education
Master in Psychology
Master in Art Therapy
Master in Social Work
Master in Indigenous Studies
Master in Forestry
UQAT offers select doctoral programs, often research-intensive and sometimes joint with other institutions in the Université du Québec system:
PhD in Environmental Sciences
PhD in Engineering
PhD in Education
PhD in Psychology
PhD in Indigenous Studies
PhD in Forest Science (with UQAT-UQAM network)
These programs are research-oriented and often allow English as the language of research and thesis, depending on the supervisor.
While UQAT is a French-language institution, some graduate research programs (especially at the master’s and PhD levels) may accept English-speaking students if:
The supervisor agrees to oversee the work in English.
The student’s research and thesis are done in English.
Coursework requirements (if any) can be adapted or waived.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Mining Engineering |
4 years |
$13,500 – $15,000 |
|
Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering |
4 years |
$13,500 – $15,000 |
|
Bachelor of Electrical Engineering |
4 years |
$13,500 – $15,000 |
|
Bachelor of Forestry Science |
4 years |
$13,000 – $14,500 |
|
Bachelor in Computer Science |
3 years |
$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Bachelor of Nursing |
3.5 years |
$12,500 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Psychology |
3 years |
$12,500 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Psychoeducation |
3 years |
$12,500 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Social Work |
3 years |
$12,000 – $13,000 |
|
Bachelor in Preschool and Primary Education |
4 years |
$12,500 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) |
4 years |
$12,500 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) |
3 years |
$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Bachelor in Indigenous Studies |
3 years |
$12,000 – $13,000 |
|
Bachelor in Multidisciplinary Arts |
3 years |
$12,000 – $13,000 |
|
Bachelor in Art Therapy |
3 years |
$13,000 – $14,500 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master in Engineering (Mining/Mechanical/Electrical) |
2 years |
$13,500 – $15,500 |
|
Master in Environmental Studies |
2 years |
$13,000 – $15,000 |
|
Master in Forestry Science |
2 years |
$13,000 – $14,500 |
|
Master in Education |
2 years |
$12,500 – $14,000 |
|
Master in Psychology |
2 years |
$13,000 – $15,000 |
|
Master in Social Work |
2 years |
$12,500 – $14,500 |
|
Master in Indigenous Studies |
2 years |
$12,000 – $13,500 |
|
Master in Art Therapy |
2 years |
$13,500 – $15,000 |
|
Master in Business Administration (MBA) |
2 years |
$13,500 – $15,000 |
PhD Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Engineering |
4 years |
$11,500 – $13,500 |
|
PhD in Environmental Sciences |
4 years |
$11,000 – $13,000 |
|
PhD in Forestry Science (with UQAM/UQAT) |
4 years |
$11,000 – $13,000 |
|
PhD in Psychology |
4–5 years |
$12,000 – $14,000 |
|
PhD in Education |
4 years |
$11,000 – $12,500 |
|
PhD in Indigenous Studies |
4 years |
$11,000 – $12,500 |
The University of Quebec at Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT) is a smaller, community-driven university in the province of Quebec, Canada, offering a peaceful, affordable, and personalized academic experience — ideal for international students seeking a more intimate and supportive study environment.
UQAT’s main campus is in Rouyn-Noranda, with additional campuses in Val-d'Or, Amos, Ville-Marie, and even within Indigenous communities. The region is rich in natural beauty, surrounded by forests, lakes, and wildlife — perfect for students who enjoy outdoor life, clean air, and a slower pace.
While it’s not a big city, it’s safe, affordable, and friendly, with everything a student needs — grocery stores, cafés, gyms, cultural venues, and easy transportation.
UQAT offers bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs with strong focus areas in:
Engineering (Mining, Mechanical, Electrical)
Forestry & Environmental Sciences
Education
Psychology & Social Work
Health Sciences (especially Nursing and Psychoeducation)
Indigenous Studies and Community Development
Art Therapy and Multidisciplinary Arts
The university is deeply connected to Indigenous communities, making it one of the few institutions in Canada with meaningful programs in First Nations education and research.
UQAT is a French-language university, so most undergraduate and coursework-based programs require at least B2-level French proficiency.
However, many graduate research programs, especially in engineering, science, and education, allow for thesis and research in English, depending on the supervisor. UQAT is flexible and welcoming toward English-speaking researchers in these areas.
One of the biggest draws of UQAT is its low cost of living. Compared to Montreal, Toronto, or Vancouver, you’ll spend far less on housing, food, and everyday expenses.
Tuition for international students is also lower than at most major Canadian universities:
Bachelor’s programs: around $12,000 – $15,000 USD/year
Master’s programs: around $13,000 – $16,000 USD/year
PhD programs: around $11,000 – $14,000 USD/year
UQAT offers on-campus residences at several locations, and finding off-campus housing is relatively easy and inexpensive. Rent is low, and utilities are often included. The small campus means tight-knit classes, personalized attention, and strong relationships between students and professors.
Student life is vibrant in its own way — while it's not a party university, UQAT hosts cultural events, student-led projects, nature outings, and international student mixers. It’s a great place to focus on your studies while still enjoying local life and outdoor activities.
UQAT has dedicated services to help you transition smoothly:
Help with study permits and CAQ applications
Orientation programs for new international students
Assistance with housing and banking
French language support, if needed
Cultural integration events and academic advising
You won’t feel lost — the community is small enough that you’ll always find someone ready to help.
Many programs include internships (stages), and international students are eligible to work part-time during studies and full-time after graduation with a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
UQAT also offers research assistantships and connects students with employers in Quebec's mining, forestry, education, and social service sectors.
Affordable tuition and low living costs
A safe and peaceful study environment
Personalized education with small classes
Research opportunities, even at the master’s level
Unique programs in Indigenous studies and sustainable development
Opportunities to immerse in French and explore nature
Visit UQAT’s official website and explore available programs by level and field of study.
Make sure you check:
Language of instruction (most programs are in French, some graduate research programs can be done in English)
Admission requirements
Whether the program has coursework or thesis/research components
Program directory: https://www.uqat.ca/programmes
High school diploma equivalent to Quebec’s Secondary School Diploma
Proof of French proficiency (minimum B2 level) via:
DELF / DALF
TEF / TCF
TFI or equivalent
Bachelor’s degree in a related field
GPA equivalent to 3.0/4.3 or higher
French proficiency (B2), unless the program permits English for research/thesis
Some programs require:
Letter of intent
CV or résumé
Recommendation letters
Research proposal (for research-based programs)
Master’s degree in a relevant field
Research experience and academic excellence
Strong research proposal
Acceptance from a supervisor
French or English proficiency (depending on the supervisor and program)
Go to UQAT's online application portal:
https://admission.uqat.ca
Create an account, choose your program, and upload required documents:
Academic transcripts and diplomas
Language test results
Passport copy
CV/resume and letters (if applicable)
Supervisor confirmation and research proposal (PhD only)
Pay the application fee (~$100 CAD)
UQAT reviews your application and will notify you by email.
If accepted, you'll receive an official letter of admission, which you’ll need to apply for a study permit.
Estimated processing time:
Undergraduate: 6–8 weeks
Graduate/PhD: 8–12 weeks (or more if research-based)
To study in Quebec, you must obtain two documents:
CAQ (Québec Acceptance Certificate)
Apply online through the Quebec government
https://www.quebec.ca/en/education/study-quebec/caq
Canadian Study Permit
Apply through the federal government (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada - IRCC)
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada.html
Apply for on-campus housing or find off-campus rentals (very affordable in the region)
Plan your travel and arrival
UQAT will invite you to join their international student orientation and support sessions
UQAT offers two main intakes per year for most programs:
Primary intake for most undergraduate and graduate programs
Offers the widest range of course availability
Best time for international students to start, especially if applying for French language support or orientation services
Available for selected programs (mostly at the graduate level or part-time studies)
Fewer course offerings compared to Fall
You must check with your chosen program to confirm Winter availability
UQAT has different eligibility requirements based on the level of study. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
Academic Requirements:
High school diploma equivalent to Quebec's Secondary School Diploma (Diplôme d'études secondaires – DES)
Solid grades in relevant subjects depending on your program (e.g., math for engineering)
Language Requirements:
Most programs are taught in French
Must demonstrate at least B2 level French proficiency
Accepted tests: DELF, DALF, TEF, TFI, TCF
If you don’t meet the requirement yet, UQAT offers French language pathway programs
Academic Requirements:
Recognized Bachelor’s degree in a related field
Minimum GPA equivalent to 3.0/4.3 or higher
Academic transcript (translated into French or English if necessary)
Language Requirements:
Most programs are in French
French language proficiency (B2 level minimum) is required
Some research-based master’s programs may be supervised in English, with the thesis written in English if approved
Other requirements (depending on program):
Letter of motivation
CV or résumé
Letters of recommendation
Possibly a research proposal
Academic Requirements:
Completed Master’s degree in a related field
Strong academic and research background
A well-defined research proposal
Supervisor approval is typically required before final admission
Language Requirements:
Research and thesis can often be done in English (if the supervisor agrees), even if the program is officially offered in French
Ranking Platform |
Category |
Ranking / Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Global Ranking |
Not ranked in QS Top 1000 |
|
QS by Subject |
Not individually ranked |
Not available |
|
US News Global Universities |
Global University Ranking |
Not individually ranked |
|
US News (Canada) |
Best Global Universities in Canada |
Not ranked among top universities |
|
Webometrics / Regional Rankings |
Canadian universities (by web presence) |
Ranked among top 100–120 |
|
U-Multirank & National Sources |
Student satisfaction & research impact |
Positive in personalized teaching and community research |
Scholarship Name |
Level |
Amount (USD Approx.) |
Eligibility Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Excellence Admission Scholarship |
Bachelor’s, Master’s |
$1,000 – $3,000 |
Automatically awarded to top academic performers at admission |
|
PBEEE – Quebec Government Scholarship |
Master’s, PhD |
Up to $25,000/year |
High-achieving international students; competitive, all fields eligible |
|
Graduate Research Scholarship (UQAT internal) |
Master’s, PhD |
$2,000 – $10,000/year |
Based on research quality and supervisor recommendation |
|
UQAT Foundation Scholarships |
All levels |
$500 – $5,000 |
Based on academic excellence, community involvement, or financial need |
|
Mitacs Globalink Research Award |
Master’s, PhD |
$6,000 |
For international research projects; requires project approval |
|
Doctoral Excellence Award (UQAT) |
PhD |
$7,000 – $12,000/year |
Awarded to full-time PhD students with strong academic and research record |
|
Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGS-M) |
Master’s |
$17,500/year |
Research-based master’s students; must apply through UQAT |
Facility Type |
Details |
Estimated Cost (USD/month) |
|---|---|---|
|
On-Campus Residence – Rouyn-Noranda |
Furnished private room, shared kitchen & bathroom (4-bedroom apartment style) |
$350 – $450 |
|
On-Campus Residence – Val-d'Or |
Private room, shared living space; located near the regional campus |
$350 – $450 |
|
Studio Apartment (Limited Units) |
Private studio with kitchenette and bathroom (on or near campus) |
$500 – $600 |
|
Inclusions (on-campus) |
Heating, electricity, internet, furniture, study desk, laundry access |
Included in rent |
|
Off-Campus Shared Apartment |
Private room in a shared house or apartment in the city |
$400 – $550 |
|
Private One-Bedroom Apartment |
Entire unit (1-bedroom) in Rouyn-Noranda or Val-d'Or |
$550 – $700 |
|
Temporary Housing (Arrival Period) |
Hotel or Airbnb for short-term stays |
$50 – $90 per night |
|
Meal Plan |
No formal meal plan; students cook or eat off-campus |
$250 – $400/month (food) |
|
Transportation |
Public bus available; most students walk or bike |
$0 – $30/month (if needed) |
UQAT offers a unique blend of academic excellence, personal support, and close community living — perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful and focused study experience away from the noise of a big city.
One of UQAT's biggest strengths is its sense of community. With smaller campuses and smaller class sizes, it’s easy to make friends and get to know your professors and staff. International students are welcomed warmly, and there are dedicated resources to help you feel at home from the moment you arrive.
The local population is friendly, and even though French is the main language, people are often patient and helpful if you're still learning.
UQAT has campuses in Rouyn-Noranda, Val-d’Or, Amos, and Ville-Marie, each offering modern facilities like classrooms, labs, libraries, fitness areas, and student lounges. The main campus in Rouyn-Noranda has student residences on site, and everything you need is within walking or biking distance.
Despite the size, there’s a lot happening — student-led activities, research projects, and community events keep the energy up all year round.
While it’s not a massive university, UQAT has a surprising amount of student activities, especially organized through its student associations. You can take part in:
Welcome weeks and orientation events
Cultural nights and international potlucks
French conversation circles and language exchange meetups
Outdoor trips like hiking, snowshoeing, skiing, or lake outings
Clubs focused on sustainability, gaming, fitness, or Indigenous culture
There are also student-run cafés and community spaces where you can hang out, study, or meet new people.
Since UQAT is a French-language university, most programs are in French — but the school is committed to helping international students improve their language skills.
You’ll find:
French language support and tutoring
Optional French immersion programs before or during your studies
Help with understanding lectures, taking notes, and writing academic papers in French
Even if your French isn't perfect when you arrive, UQAT helps you learn and integrate gradually.
Student life here is incredibly affordable compared to cities like Montreal or Toronto. Rent is low, groceries are budget-friendly, and public transport is often free or very cheap.
You’ll have access to:
Cafés, restaurants, and supermarkets
Outdoor markets and local festivals
Quiet places to study, both on and off campus
Nature everywhere — lakes, forests, hiking trails, and even wildlife viewing
It’s perfect for students who enjoy peaceful surroundings, clean air, and a slower pace of life.
UQAT promotes student wellness with access to:
On-campus healthcare services
Counseling and mental health support
Gym and sports facilities
Outdoor fitness trails and parks
Whether you're into fitness or just want to stay balanced, there are plenty of ways to keep healthy here.
At UQAT, students aren’t just numbers. You'll build meaningful relationships with peers, professors, and local communities. Especially in research-based programs, you’ll often work closely with faculty, and international students are encouraged to contribute to real-world projects — particularly in environmental sciences, engineering, education, and Indigenous studies.
If you’re looking for a supportive, affordable, and nature-rich university where you can grow academically and personally, UQAT offers a fantastic experience. It’s perfect for students who want a break from the fast pace of big cities and are open to living in a French-speaking, culturally rich environment.
UQAT does not operate a traditional "placement cell" like in some countries, but it has a strong focus on employability, practical learning, and internship-based experiences (stages), especially in sectors relevant to Quebec’s economy like mining, forestry, health, education, and social sciences.
Instead of guaranteed job placements, UQAT provides students with the tools, experience, and network to help them enter the Canadian job market confidently.
Many undergraduate and graduate programs at UQAT include mandatory or optional internships, often integrated into the curriculum. These are called stages and provide real-world experience in local or regional organizations.
Internships are common in:
Engineering (Mining, Mechanical, Electrical)
Forestry and Environmental Science
Social Work and Psychology
Nursing and Health Sciences
Business Administration
Education and Teaching
International students can legally participate in internships under their Canadian study permit, provided they are part of their academic program.
UQAT’s Career and Employment Services (Service de placement) helps students with:
Job search strategies and resume writing (in French and English)
Interview preparation and networking
Job boards for internships, part-time, and full-time jobs
Career fairs and employer events (virtual and in-person)
Guidance on immigration pathways and post-graduation work permits
The support is personalized thanks to the university’s small size, so you can get one-on-one help as you prepare for life after graduation.
International graduates of UQAT are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) valid for up to 3 years, allowing them to work in Quebec or anywhere in Canada.
UQAT graduates often find opportunities in:
Mining and natural resources (very strong industry ties in the region)
Forestry and sustainable development
Health and social services
Education (especially in French-language schools)
Municipal and provincial government projects
The Abitibi-Témiscamingue region is also considered a less-populated area, which can be an advantage for those applying for Canadian permanent residency via the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) or Rural/Atlantic Immigration programs.
While UQAT doesn’t publish detailed, program-by-program placement stats, internal data and regional reports show:
Strong employment rates (often 80%+ within 6 months of graduation) for fields like engineering, education, nursing, and social work
Many students are offered positions where they interned
The demand for skilled graduates is high in regional sectors, particularly if you speak French
UQAT may not be a global placement hub, but it shines in preparing students for meaningful, sustainable careers — especially in Quebec’s growing industries. With integrated internships, career support, and immigration-friendly options after graduation, UQAT offers a solid path to working and staying in Canada.
Undergraduate Programs: ~ 75% – 85%
Master’s Programs: ~ 60% – 75%
PhD Programs: ~ 50% – 65%
Inclusive Admission Philosophy:
As a part of the Université du Québec system, UQAT is committed to accessible education, including welcoming international students from diverse backgrounds.
Smaller Class Sizes, Less Competition:
UQAT isn’t as competitive as large universities in big cities (like McGill or U of T), which means you’re more likely to get admitted if you meet the academic and language requirements.
French Language Requirement Filters Applications:
Since most programs are taught in French, only applicants who meet the B2 level French proficiency are eligible. This naturally narrows the applicant pool and raises the acceptance ratio.
Graduate & PhD Research Flexibility:
In graduate and doctoral programs, your research alignment, GPA, and supervisor approval matter more than sheer competitiveness. If you’re well-prepared, you stand a strong chance.
Academic performance and GPA (minimum requirements vary by program)
Required French proficiency (B2 for most programs; some grad programs allow English for thesis)
Strength of documents: CV, letter of intent, research proposal (for graduate/PhD)
Supervisor availability (especially for PhD programs)
Timely and complete application submission
Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT)
445, boulevard de l’Université
Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, J9X 5E4
Canada
A vibrant regional city in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region of western Quebec.
Surrounded by lakes, forests, and trails, Rouyn-Noranda is known for its outdoor lifestyle, peaceful environment, and rich cultural scene.
It’s a safe, student-friendly city with a low cost of living and a strong connection between the university and the local community.
UQAT also has regional campuses and teaching centers in:
Val-d’Or
Amos
Ville-Marie
La Sarre
First Nations communities (e.g., Pikogan, Kitcisakik)
Each campus offers specific programs and services tailored to local needs, particularly in education, social work, Indigenous studies, and environmental sciences.
Rouyn-Noranda is accessible by regional flights, bus service, and well-maintained highways.
The city is remote compared to major Canadian cities but has reliable local transit, walkable neighborhoods, and is easy to navigate for students.
Closest major city: Montreal, approx. 7–8 hours by road or 1 hour by flight.
